18 AMAZING HEALTH BENEFITS OF BANANAS: A BANANA A DAY KEEPS ILL HEALTH AWAY.
Banana is one of the most widely eaten fruits in the world, which is readily recognized because of its distinctive shape and bright colors. Interestingly, this amazing fruit, in fact has a lot to offer, both nutritionally, as well as in relieving the symptoms of a myriad of physical complaints, reports ………
Sade Oguntola.
So often, many people overlook banana when it comes to providing nutritional and medicinal value. Bananas in fact have a lot to offer us, both nutritionally, as well as in relieving the symptoms of a myriad of physical complaints.
Banana abounds in hundreds of edible varieties that fall under 2 distinct species: the sweet banana (Musa sapient, Musa nana) and plantain (Musa paradisiacal).
Bananas like apples have proven health benefits. Ironically, bananas have more nutrients and vitamins than apples. Its consumption can help people live healthier and more active lives through taking advantage of the energy and health benefits it can provide.
AMAZING HEALTH BENEFITS OF BANANAS:
Keep blood pressure under check.
Bananas are very rich in potassium yet almost completely devoid of sodium, and as such very well suitable to preventing high levels of blood pressure from overcoming the body. Blood pressure is one of the leading risk factors and indicator for heart disease.
An average banana contains up to 500mg of potassium and around 1mg of sodium. Since potassium has a lowering effect on blood pressure while sodium has a strengthening effect, this is a wonderful ratio to consume on a daily basis.
Cut down risk of stroke.
A recent study suggests that eating 3 bananas a day cuts risk for stroke by 21%. What is in a banana? The miracle ingredient is potassium, which reduces blood pressure, thus combating a leading cause of stroke.
Promote bone health.
Potassium may counteract the increased urinary calcium loss caused by the high-salt diets, thus preventing bones from thinning out at a fast rate. This, according to University of Maryland Medical Centre, reduces the risk of osteoporosis.
Protect eyesight.
Fruits like bananas are important for keeping good sight. A 2004 study, published in the Archives of Ophthalmology, indicated that eating 3 or more servings of fruit per day may lower your risk of age-related macular degeneration (ARMD), the primary cause of vision loss in older adults, by 36%, compared to persons who consume less than 1.5 servings of fruit daily.
Supports healthy kidney.
Research in the International Journal of Cancer suggests that regular, moderated consumption of whole fruits and vegetables, especially bananas, can be kidney-protective. The result of a large population based prospective study of 61,000 women aged 40 to 76, showed that women eating more than 75 servings of fruits and vegetables per month cut their risk of kidney cancer 40%.
Also, according to the study in the Internal Journal of Cancer, women halved their risk of developing kidney problem by eating bananas compared to those who did not eat this fruit.
Ease depression.
People suffering from depression, feel much better after eating a banana. Bananas contain Tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin which helps the body to relax, improve mood and generally make happier. Studies show that bananas are also helpful in reducing stress levels.
Treat anemia
Experiencing anemia, try banana rather than blood forming pills. High in iron, bananas can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood and also help in the cases of anemia.
Reduces constipation.
Are you suffering from constipation? The best solution to constipation is eating a banana a day. Bananas are rich in fiber that can help to restore normal bowel action, and overcome constipation without resorting to laxatives. A single serving (one medium-sized banana) contains 16% of the daily recommended dietary fiber intake for a normal adult.
Soothes heart burns.
If suffering from heart burns, try eating a banana for its soothing relief. Bananas have a neutral antacid effect in the body.
Prevents morning sickness.
Besides, their calming properties help combat morning sickness, snacking on bananas between meals can help in keeping blood sugar levels up.
Ease peptic ulcers.
Banana is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in people with severe intestinal disorders because of its soft texture and smoothness. Eating a raw banana also neutralizes acidity and reduces irritation by coating the lining of the stomach. Aside this, other substances in bananas known as protease inhibitors get rid of bacteria in the stomach that produces stomach ulcers.
Medical experts say that a simple concoction of banana and milk can help to suppress acid secretion considerably, thus protecting against stomach and ulcer damage.
Mood enhancers
Bananas contain tryptophan, one of the 20 amino acids which helps the body to produce serotonin-which has a calming effect on the brain (creates a stable mood) and acts as a mild sedative. The only way the body gets its dose of tryptophan is through diet. It does not produce it.
Morning sickness cure.
In pregnancy, just shoving a banana in the mouth calms the queasy feeling, restores the blood glucose level and body temperature.
Quit smoking.
Bananas can help minimize the effects of nicotine withdrawal. Bananas are rich in potassium, magnesium and other vital vitamins present which give the brain a soothing whenever it screams for nicotine.
Effective in diarrhea.
In uncomfortable conditions like diarrhea, electrolytes are drained out of the body, causing weakness. These electrolytes can be restocked with the help of potassium levels present in bananas.
Menstrual pains cure.
Majority of the womenfolk take pills to reduce menstrual pains. Rather than taking these pain killers, eat a banana. Bananas are rich in vitamin B6 that helps in regulating blood glucose levels. This helps in balancing your overall mood and hence reduces menstrual pains.
Increased brain power.
A survey involving 200 students at a school in Middle school, who were given bananas along with their normal diet for their breakfast, break and lunch proved that bananas increase brain power. The research indicated that potassium in bananas helped to increase their mental alertness and boost brain power.
Reduce itching of mosquito bites.
Worried by an itching or swelling due to mosquito bites? Rather using these creams to reduce itching and swelling, use banana peels. Rub the itching or swelling area with the inside of banana peels to get a relief from mosquito bite itching or swelling.
Yes, I agree with you. Banana is very important for our health. I regularly eat the banana. I get the result immediately. I have learned a lot of crucial information about the banana. Thanks for sharing.
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